Press releases and news 1997

A new method for disposing of organic waste offers some clear advantages: compostable materials and sewage sludge can be used as a source of energy. At the same time, the volume of waste is reduced by over 50%.

Fraunhofer researchers have developed a component which regulates the humidity in air conditioning systems, removes carbon dioxide from the air, and purifies the water which condenses – it will even produce drinking water. And the device is hardly larger than a can of lemonade.

Exhaustive testing is required for cosmetics and medicines before they can be released on the market. An artificial cornea provides a valuable alternative to subjecting live rabbits to the Draize test.

In some cases, biocatalysts can be superior to chemical synthesis. High selective stereo-selective enzymes for example can be applied for the production of chiral hydroxamic acids and amines.

Tiny blood capillaries transport blood to almost every cell in the body. Fraunhofer scientists have now identified a factor that encourages the formation of new blood vessels. This opens up new perspectives in the treatment of circulatory disorders.